Rugby

Manie Libbok: No tension as players battle for World Cup spots

Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok says there’s no tension among the many players within the squad as the choice for the Rugby World Cup squad looms.

On August 8, the Springboks’ bosses will announce the 33-man squad that can go to France come September to try to defend the Webb Ellis Cup they received in Japan in 2019.

While there’s little doubt competitors within the squad is intense, Libbok says there are not any points among the many players.

‘Give it their all’

“I won’t say it’s getting heated between us,” stated Libbok, who’s in a battle to make the squad as one of many flyhalves, “however everybody is aware of solely 33 guys can go, and clearly it’s getting nearer to the choice.

“Everyone who gets an opportunity wants to go out there and give it their all so they can give themselves the best possible chance to get selected.”

The 26-year-old is competing with Damian Willemse, Handre Pollard and Elton Jantjies for a spot as beginning alternative No 10.

“I put it aside,” stated Libbok in regards to the competitors.

“Guys like Handre and Elton are vastly skilled guys at this degree. My focus coming right here (into the Bok squad) was to study as a lot as I can from them.

“What I take from them I put into my recreation and carry on working arduous, so at any time when the chance comes for me, I’m able to play.

“For me it’s not about starting or being on the bench, I’m just focusing on being here and learning from those experienced guys and elevating my game.”

Working on expertise

Libbok, who has 5 caps, says he’s now extra comfy within the Bok setup than when he arrived final 12 months for the November tour to Europe.

“I’ve started working with world-class coaches right here on the Springboks … they helped with my catch-pass, and kicking, and I’ve stored on engaged on these expertise.

“I believe I’ve improved a lot. I took what I got from the end-of-year-tour back to the Stormers and kept on working on those fundamentals and I think it helped me through the season.”

The Boks are in camp in Pretoria forward of dealing with Argentina within the final recreation of the Rugby Championship at Ellis Park on Saturday.


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